Honolulu Star-Advertiser

Tuesday, November 19, 2024 76° Today's Paper


Top News

Alcatraz reopens for indoor tours after yearlong closure

1/2
Swipe or click to see more
ASSOCIATED PRESS
Alcatraz reopens after year of COVID-19 closure
ASSOCIATED PRESS
                                People tour the main cell house on Alcatraz Island in San Francisco today.
2/2
Swipe or click to see more

ASSOCIATED PRESS

People tour the main cell house on Alcatraz Island in San Francisco today.

ASSOCIATED PRESS
                                People tour the main cell house on Alcatraz Island in San Francisco today.

Related Photo Gallery

Alcatraz hosts first indoor tours in more than a year

SAN FRANCISCO >> Alcatraz, the historic island prison off San Francisco, opened up today for a limited number of indoor tours, which had been off-limits for more than a year due to the pandemic.

Face masks and social distancing are still required at the island, which once housed Al Capone and George “Machine Gun” Kelly. Ferries to Alcatraz are operating at 25% capacity, carrying about 150 passengers instead of the usual 600.

Access to the infamous cell house will also be limited only to visitors who sign up for the audio tour in advance.

Safety modifications have been made throughout the island including social distancing markers, increased cleanings and hand sanitizing stations.

Food service will not be available on the ferries or on the island.

In August, the popular tourist destination opened to an outdoor-only experience, to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19.

Alcatraz usually hosts up to 5,000 tourists a day. For now, that number will be reduced to about a thousand.

By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the Terms of Service. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our guidelines. Having trouble with comments? Learn more here.